PM Modi’s Kuwait Connect
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Gulf Spic Labour Camp in Kuwait was a poignant reminder of the pivotal role the Indian diaspora plays in shaping global perceptions of India. The interaction with workers, many of whom form the backbone of Kuwait’s labor force, underscored his government’s commitment to recognizing and addressing their concerns.
This visit goes beyond the usual optics of diplomacy. Modi’s conversations with Indian workers were an acknowledgment of their hard work and sacrifices, often made under challenging conditions. His assurances of India’s support resonated with an audience longing for visibility and recognition. For years, Indian workers in the Gulf have been an invisible workforce, contributing significantly to the economies of their host countries while remitting billions back home.
The Prime Minister’s effort to connect directly with them also highlights a crucial diplomatic strategy. By addressing their welfare, Modi is not only strengthening India’s soft power abroad but also fostering goodwill that could yield long-term benefits in bilateral relations. It’s a smart move at a time when the Gulf region remains strategically vital for energy security and economic partnerships.
However, the visit also raises questions about whether the government is doing enough to ensure safe and fair working conditions for its citizens abroad. While gestures like these are commendable, systemic issues such as exploitation and lack of legal safeguards for migrant workers must be addressed through policy changes and robust bilateral agreements.
Modi’s Kuwait interaction was a step in the right direction. It now remains to be seen if such efforts will translate into tangible benefits for the Indian workforce abroad.
